Easter is just days away and in keeping up with the festivities, we'll be taking a closer look at the history of Easter, what it represents, and how it is celebrated in different parts of the world!
Simply put, Easter is a prominent Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. However, Easter celebrations have definitely expanded well past traditional Christian festivities and can be celebrated secularly.
The History of Easter
Easter is viewed as the most important holiday in the Christian calendar and is celebrated around the world with different customs and traditions. It is a time of new beginnings, renewal, and rebirth, and is a celebration of faith, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life.
The word "Easter", however, comes from the Old English word "ēastre," which was the name of a pagan festival celebrating the spring equinox. When Christianity spread throughout Europe, the Christian holiday of Easter was gradually adopted.
Today, whether you are celebrating the spring equinox or the resurrection of Jesus - the celebration revolves around the underlying themes of new beginnings and life.
Celebrating Easter
Easter is celebrated in different ways around the world, with many customs, traditions, and symbols that have evolved over time. From movies and shows, to music, and to the sweets you see in store, we're sure you've seen plenty of these symbols during the holidays!
Some common symbols and traditions include:
- Easter Eggs: Decorating eggs is a pretty popular Easter tradition. Eggs are a common symbol linked to pagan spring traditions and symbolisms of new life and rebirth. In many countries, it is common to give chocolate eggs or egg-shaped sweets as gifts. And hunting for these sweet treats and decorated eggs is always fun for the whole family!
- Baby Chicks & Hatching Eggs: Also pretty common, and like the symbolism behind the Easter Eggs, chicks also represent new life and rebirth.
- The Easter Bunny: The Easter Bunny is a popular symbol of Easter in many countries, especially in the United States and Canada. Children believe that the Easter Bunny brings them baskets filled with candy and gift.
- Easter Parades: In some countries, such as Spain, Italy, and Canada, Easter parades are a common tradition. These parades often feature religious processions, colourful costumes, and music!
- Church Services: Easter Sunday is a day of worship for Christians, with many attending church services to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
- Other Christian symbols of Easter include lambs and easter lilies, both of which are linked to Jesus
Easter is a holiday that has been celebrated for centuries, with many customs and traditions that have evolved over time. And although it is known to be a Christian holiday, both Christians and non-Christians alike partake in all the fun traditions! Whether it's decorating eggs, attending church services, or enjoying a family meal, Easter is a time for new beginnings and celebrating the joys of life!